If you're craving a sweet treat that's easy to make, look no further! My Sheet Pan Strawberry Shortcake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time. Whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, this recipe covers all bases. Join me as we explore how to create this simple yet delicious delight!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This sheet pan strawberry shortcake can be made in under an hour, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion without the hassle.
- Deliciously Fresh: The use of fresh strawberries ensures that each bite bursts with flavor, perfectly complementing the sweet whipped cream.
- Serves a Crowd: With this recipe, you can easily serve 8 people, making it ideal for gatherings or family dinners.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add other fruits to the topping, allowing you to make it your own!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make the sheet pan strawberry shortcake, you'll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for strawberries)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
Measurement Tips
When measuring flour, spoon it into a cup and level it off with a knife. This method helps avoid packing too much flour. For sugar, use the scoop and level method too. Always use a kitchen scale for the best accuracy, especially when working with butter and heavy cream.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed. Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a healthier option. If you lack buttermilk, mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. For dairy-free options, try coconut cream in place of heavy cream.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pan
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures even baking. While the oven heats, grab a large baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a big bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Combine 2 cups flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix until everything blends well. In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients. Combine 1 cup buttermilk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This will bring flavor and moisture to your cake.
Baking and Cooling Process
Now, it’s time to combine everything. Slowly pour the wet mix into the dry mix. Stir gently. Be careful not to over-mix. Once combined, transfer the dough to your baking sheet. Spread it into a layer about 1 inch thick. Bake for 20-25 minutes. The top should turn golden brown. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean. After baking, let it cool on a wire rack.
Assembling the Sheet Pan Strawberry Shortcake
While the cake cools, prepare the strawberries. In a medium bowl, mix 4 cups sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup powdered sugar. Toss them for even coating and let them sit for 15-20 minutes. This draws out their juices, making them sweet and juicy. Next, whip 1 cup heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
Once the shortcake has cooled, cut it into squares. Place one square on a plate, top it with the sweetened strawberries, and add a dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dough Texture
For the best dough, use cold butter. Cold butter makes the dough flaky. Cut the butter into small cubes. Mix it into the flour until it looks like crumbs. Don't mix too much; we want some small chunks of butter. This helps create layers. Make sure to use buttermilk. It adds a nice tang and keeps the dough moist.
Enhancing Strawberry Flavor
To make the strawberries shine, slice them and toss with powdered sugar. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes. This draws out the juices and creates a sweet syrup. You can also add a splash of lemon juice. This gives a fresh kick that brightens the flavor. Fresh strawberries work best, so choose ripe ones for the sweetest taste.
Whipped Cream Tips
For the fluffiest whipped cream, start with cold heavy cream. Use a clean bowl and beaters. Whip the cream until it forms soft peaks. Then, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue whipping until you get stiff peaks. This makes the cream hold its shape. You can also add a little lemon zest for a fun twist!
Pro Tips
- Use Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and buttermilk are cold to achieve a light and fluffy texture in the shortcake.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to avoid a tough shortcake; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Let Strawberries Sit: Allowing the strawberries to sit with sugar for 15-20 minutes helps to draw out their natural juices, enhancing their flavor.
- Whip Cream to Stiff Peaks: Whipping the cream until stiff peaks form creates a stable topping that holds its shape beautifully on the shortcake.
Variations
Different Fruit Options
You can switch out strawberries for other fruits. Try blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Each fruit brings its own flavor. For a fun twist, mix several fruits together. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the fruit's sweetness.
Alternative Sweeteners
If you want to cut sugar, use honey or maple syrup. These natural sweeteners add a nice flavor. You can also try coconut sugar or stevia for a low-calorie option. Just be careful with amounts; some sweeteners are stronger than regular sugar.
Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free Options
To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it measures cup for cup like regular flour. If you want a dairy-free version, use almond milk or coconut milk in place of buttermilk. You can also use coconut cream to whip up a dairy-free topping. Enjoy the same great taste without the dairy!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store leftover sheet pan strawberry shortcake in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for 2-3 days. The strawberries may lose some texture, but the flavor remains sweet.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the shortcake for longer storage. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag or container. They will last up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before adding strawberries and whipped cream.
Best Practices for Reheating
To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. Warm the shortcake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This keeps it soft and fluffy. Add fresh strawberries and whipped cream right before serving for the best taste.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Bake the shortcake and cool it completely. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. You can prepare the strawberries and whipped cream a few hours before serving. This way, everything stays fresh and tasty.
How to serve sheet pan strawberry shortcake?
To serve, cut the shortcake into squares. Place a piece on a plate. Top it with the sweetened strawberries and a generous dollop of whipped cream. You can add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a pretty touch. This dessert looks great and tastes even better!
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute. Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will create a tangy flavor similar to buttermilk. You can use this mixture in your recipe without any issues.
How long will it last in the fridge?
The assembled shortcake is best eaten fresh but can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container. Keep the shortcake, strawberries, and whipped cream separate if possible. This helps maintain the texture. Enjoy each delicious bite!
In this article, we explored the key ingredients and their measurements for making sheet pan strawberry shortcake. We also covered step-by-step instructions and shared tips for perfecting the dough and enhancing flavors. I introduced several variations and highlighted best storage practices.
Remember, this recipe can be fun and creative. Experiment with fruits or sweeteners that you love. Enjoy making this treat and share it with those you care about!
